Where are you from? What brought you to Arizona?
I’m originally from Illinois, but the sunny weather and active lifestyle made the move an easy choice for us. Arizona offers so many outdoor activities—and if it gets too hot, we can always head north for cooler temps or take a quick trip to the ocean. The sunny skies definitely beat those cloudy Midwest days! With a couple of our kids going to college here, we just couldn’t resist following them—haha!
Tell us your background before becoming a realtor.
I’ve always had a passion for all things home. That love led me into the world of design, where I worked on both residential and commercial projects. I also gained valuable experience as a marketing representative for a home inspection company.
In your opinion, how does collaborating with a team help improve the client experience?
For me, collaborating with a team enhances the client experience by providing the support, knowledge, and resources of a group committed to excellence. When everyone shares the same goal of acting in the client’s best interest—backed by a reputation for integrity, honesty, and exceptional service—it creates a stronger, more seamless experience overall.
Do you have a few favorite local spots or hidden gems in the area?
Soul Café for the best pancakes.
Brunch — they feature a “donut of the day.” YUM!
Local Johnny’s for breakfast, sandwiches, or cocktails. Great after a long bike ride! They’ve got a laid-back outdoor porch in Cave Creek.
The Stillery is a fun, casual spot with great food and live music every day and night.
The Belmont Kitchen and Cocktails just opened—if you’re looking for something more modern, chic, and upscale, they won’t disappoint.
Some great trailheads to hit:
Sonoran Preserve – Apache Wash Trailhead
McDowell Sonoran Preserve – Tom’s Thumb Trailhead
Pinnacle Peak has always been a longtime favorite.
Bonus spot:
Paloma Community Park in Peoria—a huge, beautiful facility with a lake for fishing, splash pads for the kiddos, open space for flying kites, ramadas, soccer fields, baseball fields, pickleball courts, a dog park (with separate areas for small and large dogs), and so much more. It’s a great place to spend your evenings while enjoying Arizona’s beautiful sunsets.
As someone who has made Arizona your home, what advice would you give people new to the Valley?
There is so much to do, see, and explore in this great state. Get out, get involved, and stay active. Whether it’s food, a hike, or a concert—take it one weekend at a time, and soon you’ll discover your own favorite hidden gems.